Alperen Sengun delivered a dominant performance with 32 points and 14 rebounds, leading the Houston Rockets to a 119-115 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies on Thursday night. The Rockets (25-12) secured their third consecutive win and extended their hold on second place in the Western Conference, now 1.5 games ahead of Memphis (24-14).
Sengun’s efforts were complemented by Jalen Green, who contributed 27 points, and Fred VanVleet, who added 22 points, including key late-game free throws.
Ja Morant made his return for Memphis after missing five games due to a shoulder injury, scoring 27 points in 29 minutes. Jaren Jackson Jr. added 21 points, eight rebounds, and six blocks, while Desmond Bane chipped in with 16 points. Despite the strong showing, Memphis couldn’t capitalize on its opportunities in crunch time.
The Rockets built a 17-point lead before Memphis rallied to close the gap, trailing 68-63 at halftime.
Houston maintained its edge in the second half with balanced scoring and a strong defensive effort. Sengun led the charge, finishing 12-of-20 from the field and hitting key free throws in the final minutes. Green knocked down four three-pointers, and VanVleet added three more, keeping Memphis at bay.
A critical moment occurred with 3.8 seconds remaining. Memphis trailed 117-114 when Desmond Bane hit a three-pointer that would have tied the game. However, Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins had called a timeout before the shot, negating the basket. On the ensuing play, Bane was fouled and made one of two free throws, but Memphis failed to secure the rebound, sealing the victory for Houston.
Memphis showed resilience in the fourth quarter, with Jackson Jr. blocking shots and Santi Aldama providing energy off the bench. Aldama scored 12 points and grabbed nine rebounds, while Luke Kennard contributed 11 points, hitting three three-pointers. Despite their efforts, Houston’s lead proved insurmountable.
The Rockets’ interior dominance was evident, outscoring Memphis 48-38 in the paint. Sengun’s five offensive rebounds highlighted Houston’s second-chance scoring opportunities, and the Rockets capitalized on Memphis’ 19 turnovers, converting them into 25 points.
